Teeth Whitening Kits used by Dentists

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Introduction

Most of the teeth whitening kits used by dentists are those that contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide which are the best teeth whitening agents. Strengths vary between 25 and 40%. Some use titanium dioxide and chlorine dioxide instead. Most of these treatments are meant to whiten teeth by up to 10 times.

Safe Teeth Whitening Products

Many of those who are looking to whitening their teeth but are scared of using bleach to get their brilliant smile back, along with their self-confidence and self-esteem. Teeth whitening kits are very safe to use even though the active ingredients are peroxide based. Most of the teeth whitening kits on the market use carbamide peroxide and this produces hydrogen peroxide in a quantity of around 3% which is safe for oral use.

Some use pure hydrogen peroxide but also in safe levels and are completely safe to use if you follow the directions of the manufacturer. The teeth whitening kits are designed so that they do not damage the tooth enamel when used appropriately.

In fact, they do not whiten the enamel of your teeth at all, they work on the tissue below the enamel called dentin. It is however always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these products to avoid any problems, and even so there could some minor side effects for some people.

Teeth Bleaching side Effects

Although the utmost care is taken when developing these teeth whitening kits, there is always a chance of some minor side effects. The majority of the side effects experienced after using these products are related to the gums, teeth themselves or dental restorations done to your teeth. We look at the different side effects that are possible when using home kits that help whiten teeth.

Gums People who suffer from gum disease or gingivitis are prone to side effects when using teeth whitening kits. However, anybody can experience some side effects after using these kits. The side effects related to gums when using these teeth whitening kits develop if the gel used, often a type of peroxides, touches the gums. This can happen when the gel leaks out from the trays being used, or if you use too much gel in the tray.

The higher the concentration of peroxide used the greater the irritation that can develop when it gets on your gums. Dentists tend to use a lot higher concentrations but they also use special protection for both gum and roots. The irritation caused by the bleach will, however, dissipate once it is removed from the gum area. Using a tray when applying the gel formula will help you to avoid getting the gel on your gums.

Teeth The most common side effect when using teeth whitening kits is tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can be exacerbated if the user already has sensitive teeth. The bleaching agent can cause a reaction to hot or cold temperatures but this type of sensitivity does not usually last long. When using these teeth whitening kits it is recommended to test them out first by using them for a shorter period of time than what you would for a normal treatment to determine if you are going to be experiencing sensitivity.

If you do then use them for shorter periods and at longer intervals to lessen the inconvenience, the only negative in this scenario is it may take a little longer to get the perfect smile. Should you be somebody that has existing tooth issues such as decay or fillings that are broken you may experience more severe discomfort, but there is still no chance of damaging the enamel of the teeth by teeth whitening kits or their ingredients when used properly.

Dental Restorations The main concern here is if you have mercury fillings. There is a belief that the whitening agents may release the mercury which is harmful. However, this has been disproven by the Academy of General Dentistry. As for other dental restorations which include your crowns or implants and white fillings, there is no danger to them at all when using these products.

In fact, teeth whitening could whiten your white color fillings as well. Even when using home teeth whitening kits it is a completely safe practice with minimal side effects, all of which are fleeting and will cause no permanent damage to your teeth or gums.

Does Teeth Whitening Damage your Teeth?

No teeth whitening products will not damage your teeth or tooth enamel at all. This has been conclusively established through research. Enamel is what covers your teeth and it is considered to be the hardest tissue in your body. Teeth whitening kits aim to remove the stain, not from your tooth enamel but the tissue beneath it which is called dentin.

What whitening products can do is cause your teeth to become sensitive. This happens when the enamel tubules are open and exposed after treatments. However, your saliva contains a mineral that will re-mineralize your enamel quickly and the sensitivity will pass. During this time you should avoid drinking or eating anything that contains colorants as these could cause even more staining.

Also stay away from sugars or salts as well as hot and cold beverages as these can worsen the sensitivity. So to recap, no you will not damage your teeth by using teeth whitening products, however, in order for the peroxides used in these gels to work they need to get below the enamel of your teeth to the dentin in order to remove stains. This leads to sensitivity and why your teeth may hurt after bleaching has been performed.

Conclusion

Bleaching or whitening your teeth is a completely safe practice. Yes, there may be slight side effects such as sensitivity and some discomfort should you have existing problems with tooth decay, however, it is considered a safe practice and one that will give you your confidence back with a radiant smile when done right.

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